Morwell National Park

Proclaimed in 1967, Morwell National Park is an area of natural beauty that is also suitable for passive recreational activities. The park has regional significance as one of the few remaining areas of remnant vegetation in the Strzelecki Ranges.

Things to Do

A self-guided nature walk through Fosters Gully provides the visitor with detailed information on the variety of plants and animals found in the park. The walk begins at the Kerry Road picnic area and takes about an hour to complete.

Facilities

Picnic tables, fireplaces, water, toilets and information are provided at the Kerry Road Picnic Area. There are picnic tables at Lyndons Clearing.

Camping is not permitted.

Heritage

Morwell National Park and surrounding area was occupied by the Woollum Woollum Clan who used the area to hunt possums for food and skins. Artefacts from these times have been found in the surrounding areas. Europeans settled here in the 1840s and cleared land for grazing. Remnants of saw mills and mining can be seen today.

Fauna

Koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, possums, greater gliders and many smaller mammals are common. Reptiles seen in the park include black, copperhead and tiger snakes and several lizard species including goannas. Almost 100 species of native birds have been identified in the park, including the rarely- seen powerful owl.

Vegetation

This park is best known as a habitat for over 40 species of native orchid. Remnants of the original Strzelecki Ranges forest, including some warm temperate rainforest and fern gullies, are features of the park.

Looking After the Park

>> All native plants, animals, cultural and historic sites and natural features are protected. >> Take your rubbish with you. >> Dogs, horses and other pets are not permitted in the park. >> Firearms are not permitted in the park. >> Please keep to designated tracks. >> Trail bikes are not permitted in the park. >> School groups should contact the park prior to visiting. >> Leave the park as you find it.

Precautions

Light fires only in the fireplaces provided and observe Total Fire Bans.

How to Get There

The park is 16 km south of Morwell, about two hours drive from Melbourne. Access is via Churchill or Yinnar.